Summary

Since 1993 the nonprofit organization Compassion in Dying Federation has been advocating for a social revolution that seeks more humane and caring options for dying individuals - -including end-of-life choice. From its inception, this group has worked to support and counsel individuals on how to achieve a peaceful and humane death. Many amazing stories have unfolded from individuals who have turned to Compassion in Dying, and specifically, those seeking end-of-life choice with Oregon'sDeath with Dignity Act.These stories are from individuals who sought to use the Death with Dignity Act. Most individuals have felt empowered by choice and in how they die--whether or not they opt to use the prescribed meds to end their lives--and often experience renewed hope. Publication of this book is in conjunction with Compassion in Dying Federation's 10th anniversary. NewSage Press also published former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts' book, Death Without Denial, Grief Without Apology, which includes some information on Oregon's unique Death with Dignity law.

Library Journal Review

Coombs Lee, editor of this collection of stories about choosing to die, spearheads the nonprofit organization Compassion in Dying, which offers legal and political advocacy, education, and services to support end-of-life decisions and care. She presents the cases of terminally ill patients "seek[ing] death on their own terms" under Oregon's Death with Dignity Law, allowing them, their family and friends, Compassion volunteers, and clergy to tell the stories in their own words. The patients' personal experiences fall against the backdrop of the Death with Dignity Law's origins, challenges, and opposition by right-to-life activists and U.S. Atty. Gen. John Ashcroft. These stories ultimately make us aware of the care terminally ill patients receive and argue for the right to die peacefully in the presence of loved ones rather than commit a violent suicide or allow family, pharmacists, and physicians to face prosecution. Those looking to learn about both sides of this issue should also consult Susan M. Behuniak and Arthur G. Swenson's Physician-Assisted Suicide. This well-written and -presented collection is recommended for academic libraries serving health, law, and sociology programs.-Heather O'Brien, Vaughan Memorial Lib., Acadia Univ., N.S. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

SD_ILS:1270282

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